Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Now turn with your back to the fountain. You're staring down the single street that con-
stitutes Ljubljana's Old Town. In the early 19th century, Ljubljana consisted mainly of this
solitary main drag, running along the base of Castle Hill (plus a small “New Town” across
the river). Stretching south from here are two other “squares”—Stari trg (Old Square) and
Gornjitrg(UpperSquare)—whichhavelongsincegrowntogetherintoonebig,atmospheric
promenade lined with quaint boutiques, great restaurants, and cafés. Virtually every house
along this drag has a story to tell of a famous resident or infamous incident. As you walk,
keep your eyes open for Ljubljana's mascot dragon—it's everywhere.
For a self-guided shopping stroll that runs the length of this delightful street—and high-
lights several fine shops en route—see “Shopping in Ljubljana,” later.
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Ljubljana Castle (Ljubljanski Grad)
ThecastleabovetownoffersenjoyableviewsofLjubljanaandthesurroundingcountryside.
There has probably been a settlement on this site since prehistoric times, though the first
true fortress here was Roman. The 12th-century version was gradually added on to over the
centuries, until it fell into disrepair in the 17th century. Today's castle—rebuilt in the 1940s
and renovated in the 1970s—is a cut-rate, hollow-feeling modern replica, completely lack-
ing any sense of real history. However, in recent years they've filled this dull shell with
some worthwhile attractions, including a well-presented history exhibit and film, and some
respectable restaurants. The main reason to come up here is the same reason it was built
here:fortheview,lookingoutoverLjubljana'srooftopsandtotheAlpsonthehorizon.The
castle is also home to the Ljubljana Festival, with concerts throughout the summer (tel. 01/
306-4293,
www.ljubljanafestival.si
)
.
